Memorial Chorten

Buddha Dordenma is a massive 51.5-meter (169-foot) tall bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, located in Thimphu, Bhutan.

About

Memorial Chorten

The National Memorial Chorten is one of the most iconic structures in Thimphu, Bhutan. This pristine white stupa, adorned with gleaming golden spires, was constructed in 1974 to honour the third king of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. Located on Doeboom Lam near Thimphu’s main roundabout and the Indian military hospital, it is a prominent symbol of Bhutanese culture and spirituality.

Historical Significance

The idea for the chorten was conceived by Thinley Norbu Rinpoche, a revered figure in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Commissioned by the king’s mother, Phuntsho Choden, the chorten was built after King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck’s passing in 1972. His vision of creating “a chorten to represent the mind of Buddha” was realised through this remarkable structure.

Unique Features of the Chorten

Unlike many stupas that enshrine relics, the National Memorial Chorten features a portrait of the king in ceremonial attire. The structure is a Tibetan-style Jangchup Chorten with a unique vase-like design, flaring outward instead of forming a dome. The stupa is crowned by a crescent moon and sun and decorated with intricate depictions of wrathful deities in Yab-Yum poses

Things to See

  • The richly carved annexes of the National Memorial Chorten.
  • The portrait of 3rd Dragon King in the ceremonial dress decked in the halls.
  • The monument of Tantric Buddhism located in the topmost of the Thimphu Memorial Chorten.
  • Prayer Wheels bounding the stupa shaped building of the chorten.
  • Learning about the lifework of the 3rd king of Bhutan Jigme Signe Wangchuk.
  • Circumambulate the prayer wheels of the chorten.
  • Enjoying the serene ambiance.
  • Observing the monuments of Tantric Buddhism on the topmost hall of the chorten.

Visiting Time

The visiting time of Memorial Chorten for the tourist is from 6am to 6pm. Morning time between 6-8am and evening time between 4-6pm is considered the best time to visit Memorial Chorten of Thimphu.